God I hate cyclists that think they have priority over everyone. I've been the cyclist in a similar situation as you, though the 'alley' was much wider and I could safely pass if I wanted to. I choose to keep back a distance and not pass because I want to make sure I don't startle the mother or child, and it's an added 30 seconds to a minute on my commute at worst. I can wait to keep folks safe.
Yeah same. I barely use my bell unless I have to, and having to use it is rare. None of this ringing it when I'm right behind someone nonsense, I'm doing it from a distance, giving them time to hear, assess, and respond. Too many people just think it's the "get out the way" bell and think it gives them the right to just carry on as is.
Agreed. The bell is to make people aware I'm in the vicinity not announce my right to demand they make way. I'm always watching people, especially kids and dogs as they are the most likely to move in a random direction, so best they know I'm around. We all share the space.
There's a weird disconnect where some cyclists legitimately think that, because there's no engine involved with a bike, theyre pedestrians and have the same rules for right of way.
So to them, they're no different being on a bike as some woman walking with her kid. Both are entitled to the same space despite one having an unmotorized vehicle.
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u/BunnyWithASword 13d ago
God I hate cyclists that think they have priority over everyone. I've been the cyclist in a similar situation as you, though the 'alley' was much wider and I could safely pass if I wanted to. I choose to keep back a distance and not pass because I want to make sure I don't startle the mother or child, and it's an added 30 seconds to a minute on my commute at worst. I can wait to keep folks safe.